AQuA Citizen Science Toolkit

The AQuA Citizen Science Toolkit is a validated set of tests that both volunteers and scientists can use to measure aquatic pollutants. The tests are fully validated for accuracy working with our partners like the Environment Agency and Rivers Trust. Participants use the exact same procedures, materials, and quality control measures at different monitoring sites. This means that results can be compared and combined, helping to build a much larger picture of freshwater quality than would be possible at any one site or by one group alone.

• E. coli, an indicator of faecal contamination (test done at home);

• Phosphate, nitrate/ite & ammonia, which can contribute to excessive plant and algal growth (test done at home);

• Metals (n=10), some of which may be harmful at elevated concentrations (samples sent to laboratory for analysis); and

• Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (n=55), which can enter freshwater environments through wastewater and other sources (samples sent to laboratory for analysis).

Within the AQuA project, community groups across Yorkshire are using the toolkit during coordinated seasonal monitoring events at over 100 sites across Yorkshire, UK. By collecting samples in a consistent way and within the same timeframe, the project can investigate how water quality varies between locations and seasons. The first AQuA seasonal monitoring round begins in August 2026, with further rounds taking place every 3 months for 2 years. Although the current programme is based in Yorkshire, the methods are designed to demonstrate how standardised citizen science monitoring can support freshwater research and community action globally.

Everything you need to know to use the AQuA Citizen Science Toolkit is abailable on this website (below). The training materials provide step-by-step guidance on preparing for sampling, collecting and recording samples in the field, completing the E. coli and phosphate tests, and storing and returning samples safely. They also include instructions on using the AQuA app, quality control, and key safety procedures. If you're a part of the AQuA project already then please have a look at these materials before setting out sampling. If you're not a part of the AQuA project, we will soon provide resources that you can use to recreate the kits and use them yourselves.